Ball joint problem? PLEASE READ!!!!

[Donmeister85]

Okay, I've got a question. If the ball joints are worn out, or if the seals/grease fittings (I'm guessing that's what they're called) are busted, will I get some kind of noise from that problem? When I drive my car, I notice that car (1990 Mustang LX) when braking, accelerating from 0mph, or when going over noticable bumps, I hear a squeaking/grinding noise from the front suspension. I took the car to a mechanic and the guy there said that the ball joints need to be replaced. I thought it was the struts at first, and I replaced them, but I still have the same problem. He said that the ball joints can be replaced by themselves, but I thought the ball joints couldn't be replaced unless the control arms themselves are replaced as well. Could anyone help me out with understanding this problem a little more? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[motorjock205]

Yes, the ball joints can be replaced by themselves. And Yes, they will squeak like crazy when they go bad. Mine went bad in my 96 GT and I actually thought it was the bushings making all the noise in the control arms. After I had both ball joints replaced, the car drives like a new one again! Spend the money and get it done right and be sure to get an alignment done after the work is done.